Korean food retail brand Bibigo currently operates seven units of its fast-casual Bibigo chain in the Greater Los Angeles and San Diego areas, but recently debuted an elevated “fine-casual” sister restaurant dubbed Bibigo Kitchen in San Diego. The space is a high-end restaurant setting that celebrates the flavors of Korean barbecue but in a fast and customizable way, according to the company. The main offering is grilled meats served on a plate or hot stone.
All grilled items come with a choice of a savory base, such as rice with seaweed, and a fresh salad.
One salad option is fruit kimchi that combines the spicy and fermented flavor of kimchi with the sweetness of fruits that will change seasonally. It’s more “palatable to local audiences” said chef In Jun Hwang, who wants to spread the taste and flavor of the popular Korean side dish to diners in the United States. Currently, Hwang makes the salad with baby arugula, papaya, jícama, kale, red cabbage, radish, and apples and pears pickled in a kimchi sauce base.
Availability: Indefinitely
Price: $5 as side; also an optional inclusion in plate and hot stone entrées, which range from $13-$18 and $12-$17, respectively